NORSOK S-003:2017 applies to the design and modification of installations for offshore drilling and production of petroleum, including pipelines.

The requirements in this standard are primarily defined for new designs. Therefore, for modification projects the relevance and applicability of the different requirements should be reviewed in context with the scope of each project.

This standard stipulates design requirements related to the environment as well as requirements regarding systematic management of environmental aspects in project development and the design process.

Requirements from applicable governing documents, in the form of acts, regulations, standards, recognized practices, are not repeated in this standard. Those governing documents shall be identified, listed, and applied during the design process.

More stringent requirements than those of this standard can apply to certain license areas, and the conditions of the exploitation license shall be observed.

The purpose of this standard is to ensure that the design of the facilities minimises impacts to the environment during the operational and decommissioning phases.